Book picks similar to
Strawberries and Thunderstorms by L. Luther
m-m
mm
contemporary
fake-boyfriend
The River Leith
Leta Blake - 2014
Unmoored and struggling to face his new reality, Leith must cope anew with painful revelations about his family. His brother is there to support him, but it’s the unfamiliar face of Zach, a man introduced as his best friend, that provides the calm he craves. Until Zach’s presence begins to stir up feelings Leith can’t explain.For Zach, being forgotten by his lover is excruciating. He carefully hides the truth from Leith to protect them both from additional pain. His bottled-up turmoil finds release through vlogging, where he confesses his fears and grief to the faceless Internet. But after Leith begins to open up to him, Zach's choices may come back to haunt him.Ultimately, Leith must ask his heart the questions memory can no longer answer.
Just Be You
M.E. Parker - 2018
Of all the songs he’d written, why did it have to be that song? Over ten years had passed since he’d written the song and even more since Scott had become obsessed with Marshall Donavan, his brother’s best friend. It didn’t matter that Scott hadn’t seen Marshall in years. Nor did it matter that Marshall never belonged to him or even that Marshall was straight. Scott never managed to stop thinking about him. When Scott got a call from his manager asking him to submit a song for a movie and a call from his brother Abe informing him of Marshall’s engagement to Julia Sterling on the same day, Scott took it as a sign. It was time to say goodbye and forget Marshall Donavan forever. Submitting ‘Just Be You’ to the movie executives was supposed to be Scott’s way of letting go—of forgetting, of saying goodbye. But his plan backfired when the movie became a box office success overnight and his song was nominated for a Grammy. There was no way he’d ever be able to forget. The song would follow him for the rest of his life and so would his unhealthy obsession with Marshall Donavan. It didn’t help things when he found himself face to face again with the man who had consumed his thoughts for years. No, it didn’t help at all when he saw the still very sexy and very straight Marshall Donavan for the first time in eight years. It didn’t matter what would happen between them. As soon as he saw Marshall again, he knew that giving up his obsession wasn’t an option… Just Be You is a standalone, full-length, ‘brother’s best friend’ romance novel. It has ‘gay for you’ and ‘first time gay’ themes, is stocked full of STEAM, heartache, laughter, and has a guaranteed happily ever after ending.
Only You
Melanie Harlow - 2018
When it comes to romance, I’m looking for something real, something that will last: the happily ever after. As a divorce attorney, he loves to tell me there’s no such thing. As a wedding planner, I choose to disagree. We disagree on almost everything, in fact. Everything except James Bond. The only time we really get along is when we’re watching 007 flicks together, and I’ll admit—he has rescued me from a disaster or five. So when one of the baton twirlers from his parade leaves a baby girl at his door with a note that says “I’ll come back for her” and he begs me for help, I can’t turn him down. But it’s a mistake. Because watching him with his daughter, I start to see another side of Nate, a side that has my breath coming faster, my body craving his, my heart longing for him to change his mind about love and tell me there’s a chance for us. I don’t want to be just another girl leaving his apartment in the morning. I want to be the one he asks to stay.
Best Man
Lily Morton - 2019
The product of a disorganised and chaotic childhood, Zeb likes order and control, and as the boss of his own employment agency he can give that to himself. Life runs along strict lines and he never mixes business with pleasure. Everything in his life lives in neat, alphabetized boxes. Until Jesse. Jesse Reed is Zeb’s complete opposite. He’s chaos personified. A whirling cyclone of disorder. He’s also charming and funny and a very unwanted distraction. Which is why it comes as a complete surprise to Zeb to find himself asking Jesse to pose as his boyfriend for a few days in the country at a wedding. Zeb doesn’t do impulsive, but as the time away progresses, he finds himself increasingly drawn to the merry and irreverent Jesse. But can he bring himself to break the hard-won lessons he’s learnt in life? And even if he can, how could Jesse be attracted to him anyway? He’s so much older than Jesse, not to mention being his boss. From the bestselling author of the Mixed Messages and Finding Home series comes a warm and funny romance about one man’s fight for control and another man’s determination to circumvent it. This is the first book in the Close Proximity series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Pitching Tents
Mari Thorne - 2020
The problem? He’s straight, and I’m so deep in the closet I’m halfway to Narnia. We share everything, except this one secret, and if I told him it would ruin our friendship. When he invites me on a camping trip, I can’t say no, though I know sharing a tiny tent will be torture. Sure, I can sneak off and take care of any awkward boners. What I don’t expect is getting caught. Or what happens next. Alan I only wanted to show my best friend how much fun camping was. I didn’t expect to find out he was keeping a major secret for me. And I didn’t expect to be so turned on by it either. **** Pitching Tents is a 36,500 word standalone novella about two men who take their friendship to the next level. This low-angst, steamy MM story features a bisexual awakening, no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA. Also a lesson to always bring lube when you go camping. You never know what to expect.
Stormy Hearts
Sloane Easton - 2017
He runs a successful construction business, leads a loyal team, and has a beautiful house with acres of land all to himself. Still, he can’t help but feel empty and alone. Though his friends have tried for years to hook him up with a nice girl, it never works out. Harley decides a dog would be great company, and so he heads to the shelter to foster one for the upcoming storm. When he enters the shelter, Harley doesn’t expect to finally meet someone who sparks a fire in his heart. He especially doesn’t expect for that person to be another man... After a string of failed relationships, Ash has all but given up on finding the right man. Though he is a talented artist, he has lost most of his inspiration and lives his days at home, doing web design to pay the bills. The only thing that brings him out of the house is his volunteer work at the local animal shelter. When soft-spoken Harley comes in to foster the shelter’s most misunderstood dog, Ash can’t help but think this man must have a kind soul. Too bad Harley doesn’t swing that way... or does he? The worst hurricane to hit the coast brings these two polar opposite men together. But can they weather the emotional storm of their pasts, and find peace in each other? Or will it all fall apart? Stormy Hearts is a standalone novel featuring two hot men, two cute rescue dogs, and a happy ending for all four of them!
Fall for You
A.J. Truman - 2020
He especially has no interest in his kinda-odd-but-kinda-cute neighbor Patrick, a guy who owns enough pumpkin-scented candles to start a wildfire.For Patrick, the feeling is very much mutual. He’d rather watch wax melt than share air with his kinda-rude-but-kinda-hot jock neighbor. Newly single from a painful breakup, he just wants to enjoy his first fall back in Chicago.But Patrick’s plan and Spencer’s perfect summer both come to a crashing halt after Spencer eats it on the court and winds up in a cast. Stuck having to help his neighbor get around, Patrick begins to break through the bumps and spikes of Spencer’s personality. As the two of them experience all the glory fall has to offer, they soon find themselves lost in a corn maze of emotions. But will their newfound closeness fall apart once Spencer’s cast comes off?FALL FOR YOU is a story for everyone who believes in the magic of love, the beauty of autumn, and the power of scented candles.
Love's Magic
Jan Jarrell - 2017
Traumatized by the attack, Nate sets his feet on a no-holds-barred path of activism designed to force university officials into addressing the issue of on-campus assault. To his shock, his primary frustration comes not from the university, but from his partner, David Gardener, a veteran of 12 years as a very popular Professor of Revolutionary War History. Terrified of losing his hard-won status at the school, David is reluctant to support Nate's militant efforts, while Nate, feeling abandoned by his partner, sees David's aversion to his activism as indifference to the trauma he suffered. Day by day they watch as their relationship disintegrates, while still struggling to resolve the disruptive issues engulfing the school they love. At the same time Irishman Colin Campbell, handsome and charismatic Sergeant for the campus police force, fights his own on-going war against campus assault. But behind his obsessive desire to gain justice for victims lies a devastating secret which could forever destroy his fiercely independent facade and expose his deepest fear. Ultimately, it is Colin’s powerful connection to a quiet, dark-eyed Title IX consultant which threatens to tear down his defenses and shatter the barriers protecting his heart.Colin was the bolt of lightning that ignited Joshua Abram’s heart. Cocky and irresistible, the dynamic police officer was everything Joshua had ever longed for in a man, and despite Colin’s insistence that he didn’t ‘do relationships’ Joshua couldn’t help but fall hopelessly in love. He knew his attraction to Colin could only end in heartbreak. His quiet, introverted nature could never hope to snare the vibrant, freedom-loving Irishman, so despite the undeniable and heated passion between them, he forces himself to back slowly away.When disagreements over an oddly disturbing case causes Colin’s hot Irish temper to erupt, their relationship is irrevocably shattered. Heartbroken, and convinced that Colin never wants to see him again, Joshua flees Charlottesville without a word, leaving Colin adrift and inconsolable. Finally forced to admit that he desperately needs Joshua by his side, Colin must now face the dark and long-suppressed memories which are irrevocably linked to his love for the handsome, Jewish consultant. Without even a forwarding address to guide him, he vows to find Joshua and beg his forgiveness. Colin’s struggle to conquer his pride and fear in order to find the love of his life and achieve their happily ever after will touch your heart. Four lives in turmoil fighting for the relationships they cherish, and at the heart of the struggle, a great university struggles to survive its most harrowing challenge. Please Note: This book contains adult language & steamy adult activities, it is intended for 18+ Adults Only.
Breakaway
Kindle Alexander - 2021
Now, as a uber-successful venture capitalist for eco-friendly startups, he doesn’t let anything get in the way of his goals—whether personal or professional. When a new fitness app schedules a site-wide cycle race, Greer’s competitive side won’t let him back down. Not even when his undivided attention turns to the one racer he can’t beat: Biker101.Dallas Reigns learned a long time ago to keep his head low and his focus forward. He gives his all to a business he started with his brothers, BikeBro. But he worries his all might not be enough if they can’t gain traction before their financial ship sinks. A chance meeting with a hard-hitting venture capitalist is just what they need. Until his resistance is tested when the striking blond man shows interest in more than just his company, challenging all Dallas’s etched-in-stone boundaries. When the illusion of Dallas’s life threatens to crumble under the weight of his own desire, can he find a way to fortify his iron will, or will Greer help him breakaway from the restraints of his past?
Men, Murder & Makeup
Shane K. Morton - 2021
Victor Sommers has a secret. Not only is he Maple Grove’s top hairstylist and drag queen extraordinaire, he is also the town’s reclusive best-selling novelist, murder mystery author, Vicki Dean. The murder of Mayor Jennings has everyone in the small town on edge and Vicki Dean is the prime suspect. Can Victor clear her name without revealing his secret identity?The hunky new sheriff, Harper Wolfe, investigates the murder. Will he help Victor prove Vicki's innocence or be a threat to not only his freedom but also his heart?Victor must let go of his fear and step out of the shadows in his high heels and lipstick to solve this mystery. He is ready for his close-up whether he wants it or not.
Roxy's Recovery
Kim Breyon - 2019
He is too busy healing injuries and establishing his reputation as a trustworthy vet. But when a strange man waves him down on a stormy night seeking help for his injured dog, Vaughn simply can't refuse. Obviously homeless and with no means to pay for Roxy's medical care, Vaughn throws caution to the wind and strikes a deal with the hesitant stranger that would allow Roxy the time to heal and provide some much needed TLC to his property as well. As the days pass, Vaughn's curiosity grows. Alex's dedication to the job is as surprising as the sexy tats hidden beneath his rugged clothes. What could have pushed this kind, hardworking man to the streets, or cast such dark shadows in his otherwise bright blue eyes? Will six weeks be enough time to earn Alex's trust? Or will asking questions cause him to tuck tail and run as soon as Roxy is able? ***Roxy's Recovery is a 61k standalone contemporary romance involving two men, a meddling sister, and a seriously sassy pug.
Omega's Attorney
Bella Bennet - 2017
Orphaned as a boy, Henry has wanted a family for years. Simple, right? Not really. After a year of marriage, his alpha wants a divorce. Even worse, his soon-to-be ex wants Henry’s inheritance. Bereft and heart-broken, Henry is on his own again, and in danger of losing a great deal of money. But just as quickly, he finds himself in the office of a very hot, very ripped, divorce lawyer. A gorgeous, blond alpha who’s giving him a sultry look along with some whip-smart legal advice. Everything to lose. David’s built his practice to be the best in the tri-state area. It hasn’t come easy. Hard work. Sacrifice. A family of nay-sayers. If he goes anywhere near his handsome client, he risks his reputation. But he can’t deny the simmering attraction. A kiss leads to more. He’s determined to show his omega just how good they can be together. But doubts and secrets conspire to tear them apart. Henry discovers he’s pregnant. His fears make the relationship spin onto thin ice. But David’s determined to prove he’s man enough to be a strong and dependable alpha. Can David help heal Henry’s bruised heart and show his omega that they have the makings of the perfect family? The Attorney’s Omega Baby is a 56,000 word, Mpreg romance with elements of heartache and humor, steamy sex, revenge on lying ex-boyfriends, babies and blissfully-ever-after.
Strong Medicine
J.K. Hogan - 2016
A drunken car accident gets him sentenced to a work-release at Riverbend Behavioral Health Facility. Reclusive, traumatized writer Jonah Radley has an entire graveyard of skeletons in his closet. Jonah regularly hospitalizes himself for psychotic episodes caused by a horrific childhood trauma, his biggest secret—one he refuses to speak about in therapy. Jonah and Cameron form a bond inside the hospital, forged in mutual pain and hope for a better life. Once they leave the hospital, they must decide if they are brave enough to explore the intricacies of living with mental illness—and find a new normal together.
Boss with Benefits
Ruthie Luhnow - 2020
But between the champagne and the ski runs and the king-sized bed we're sharing, it's getting harder and harder to remind myself my billionaire playboy boss could never really fall for someone like me.Fletcher: Who needs love when you have work? For years, my job has been my sole focus, and my work has paid off. But when I ask my assistant to pretend to be my fake boyfriend for a family trip, I soon realize that his quick wit and level head might be exactly what I've been looking for. It doesn't hurt that he's cute as hell, either. Has the one I've been waiting for been working beside me all along? And will a few days in the snow be enough for me to convince him that this is the real deal?Boss With Benefits is a light, flirty m/m novella with plenty of heat!
Not Another Statistic
J.M. Dabney - 2019
A friend from his old life came to him with a favor, not knowing who else to trust. Yuri had always had a way of keeping his emotional distance from the people he protected, yet that changed the day Clarkson hesitantly limped into his life. What happens when love is confused with pain? That’s the exact question Josh Clarkson had asked himself for years. He’d grown up in an overburdened foster care system, and from what he knew of love, he couldn’t expect anything but to be something tolerated. Was he meant to be more than a plaything or a piece of scenery; he could hope. Two men who know nothing but being broken find that patience and acceptance are harder than losing hope. Is the leap of faith worth the reward of letting someone else in? Maybe they’ll find the strength to find out before the danger of Josh’s past tries to tear them apart. This is the first in a series with continuing main characters. It's a HEA with no Cliffhangers.